Understanding Tanning Products
Navigate the world of tanning lotions, accelerators, bronzers and more. Find out which products suit your skin type and tanning goals.
Walking into a tanning product aisle can feel overwhelming. Accelerators, maximisers, bronzers, tingles - what does it all mean? This guide breaks down every category so you can choose with confidence.
Accelerators & Base Builders
These are your foundation products, perfect for beginners. They help you build a deeper-looking tan.
- Ideal for fair skin or first-time tanners
- No instant colour - results develop naturally
- Often enriched with vitamins and moisturisers
- Build your base over 3-5 sessions before levelling up
Bronzers (Instant & Delayed)
Bronzers give you immediate colour payoff plus longer-lasting results as DHA develops in your skin.
- Instant bronzers: Wash-off colour for immediate gratification
- Delayed DHA bronzers: Natural colour develops over 2-4 hours
- Hybrid formulas: Combine both for best of both worlds
- Great for special occasions or maintaining dark tans
Tingle Products
Tingles create a warming sensation at the skin's surface; you may feel warmth and see temporary redness. These are for experienced tanners only.
- Causes a warm, tingling sensation
- Skin may appear red/flushed temporarily
- Not suitable for fair or sensitive skin
- Start with low-level tingles before advancing
Maximisers & Intensifiers
Once you have an established tan, these products help you break through plateaus and achieve deeper colour.
- Packed with tanning ingredients for deeper-looking colour
- Often include advanced bronzer technology
- Best for medium to dark tan levels
Aftercare & Extenders
Post-session products are essential for maintaining your results and keeping skin soft and moisturised.
- Tan extenders prolong colour between sessions
- After-tan moisturisers restore hydration
- Cooling gels soothe post-session skin
- Use daily for maximum tan longevity

Written by
Jessie-Lee KingSalon Manager & Tanning Expert
Jessie-Lee is the Salon Manager at MEGATAN Studio Birmingham with over 8 years of experience in professional tanning. She specialises in helping clients find the perfect tanning routine, from selecting the right lotions to building safe, effective sunbed regimens. Jessie-Lee has trained with leading brands including Australian Gold, Devoted Creations, and Rapid Tan.

